Clashes on, rebels capture border police posts in Paktia

GARDEZ/SHARAN (Pajhwok): Heavy clashes were underway between Taliban militants and Afghan security forces in Dand Patan district of southeastern Paktia province, with both sides suffering casualties, an official said on Monday.

He said 18 policemen were killed, seven wounded and another two arrested. The Taliban destroyed two tanks and seized some ammunition, Mujahid claimed, confirming the killing of only four militants during the clash.

According to another report, nine rebels were killed in Zarghon Shahr and Barmal districts of neighbouring Paktika province.

Paktika governor’s spokesman Nabiullah Pirkhel said seven insurgents were killed during an airstrike of foreign forces in Nakhal area of Barmal district.

Another two rebels were killed during a clash with Afghan Local Police (ALP) personnel in Zarghon Shahr district, he added.